Enabling works are gathering pace on Bilston Outdoor Market redevelopment ahead of full construction starting in Spring.

Following the traders’ temporary relocation, the site has undergone comprehensive surveys, asbestos remediation, mine investigation and grouting, and demolition of the existing market stalls and public toilet block.

Midlands-based contractor, Speller Metcalfe, has this week started works to create the slab foundation for the new £5.2million market – funded by UK Government.

The redevelopment scheme is also part of the Bilston Health & Regeneration Programme (HaRP), with investment set to maximise the visibility of the market and improve the pedestrian access from the neighbouring bus/metro station.

Some of the existing structures have been demolished to make way for a new facility to suit current and future requirements, while reconfiguring the existing uses and enhancing the entrance’s focal points to the indoor market. There will also be a flexible multi-use events/market space created.

Other improvements will include a full package of new signage, a complete renewal of all trader car parks and provision of a new taxi drop-off adjacent to the existing bus/metro interchange, improved landscaping of public spaces, the introduction of new retail units and public toilets, and a taller canopy to cover the stalls.

The Indoor Market remains open as usual during the works, while outdoor traders are temporarily based at Bert Turner Boulevard/High Street/Church Street, with opening days and times remaining the same: 8am to 3pm on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 7am to 1.30pm for the Bilston Sunday Market and Car Boot.

Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for Resident Services, said: “It is good to see the project moving towards the main works with the foundations going down and we will soon see our fantastic new-look market emerging from the ground.

“We had good feedback from traders and residents throughout the consultation on this scheme and have developed attractive plans that will enhance Bilston market for everyone.

“While the improvement works are taking place, I would urge visitors to get along to the indoor market and temporary outdoor market and continue to support their local traders.

“It is important for our traditional local centres to flourish, and this scheme builds substantially on the investment already made in Bilston in recent years.”

Rob Lashford, Director at Speller Metcalfe, said: “We’re pleased to be making headway on the redevelopment of Bilston Outdoor Market which is set to improve the market space for the local community and traders. We look forward to seeing how the enhancement works transform Bilston.”